About

Luminous Newts is an eclectic pop/rock/prog group based in Berkeley, California.

Musically amphibious. Melodically curvaceous. Rhythmically agile. The Newts slide fluidly between genres; they start out as one thing and transform into another.

On July 3, 2015 they released their eponymous debut album, and their second will be released in September 2018.

Exposé Online calls their first CD “a rich helping of excellent songcraft … extremely original and seemingly timeless, with roots crossing several decades, but never sounding particularly retro … this is quality work that most definitely deserves to be heard.”

Songs range from soaring progressive rock to quirky pop tunes, and from an Irish jig to hard-edged but poetic rock reminiscent of Pink Floyd. Other influences and comparisons range widely, from Steely Dan to Toy Matinee.

The group was founded in 2012 by singer-songwriters Eric Kampman, whose 20 years of keyboard experience spans multiple prog, rock and pop groups, and Thea Kelley, who also sings with Jack o’ the Clock and formerly was with a capella group Kitka. Most recently they’ve been joined by versatile prog guitarist Andy Charmatz, bassist Gary Hobish (also of True Margrit and Shine Delirious) and veteran session drummer Russ Gold, perhaps best known for his work with jazz artists such as Tom Scott.

The Newts have performed at numerous Bay Area venues including The Starry Plough, Hotel Utah, The Quarter Note, Amnesia, Vinnie’s and many more.